Cheap Car Insurance in Augusta, Georgia
Car insurance is one of the few purchases you hope you’ll never have to use. However, an active auto insurance policy is required by law to drive in Georgia, and it is a valuable layer of financial protection. At Southern Harvest, we make it our business to help Georgia residents find affordable car insurance policies that meet their needs, whether they’re seeking coverage to meet state minimum liability requirements or a full coverage policy that protects against a range of incidents.
Everything You Need to Know About Auto Insurance in Georgia
Home of the Masters Tournament, which draws golf enthusiasts from around the world every April, Augusta is a thriving city that perfectly balances Southern charm and modern conveniences. Residents enjoy a close community vibe, supported by numerous annual festivals and a vibrant arts and culture scene that brings the city’s history to life. Local neighborhoods boast an array of outdoor recreational options and green spaces perfect for year-round outdoor activities.
Although over 200,000 residents live and travel in Augusta, the downtown roads and city streets aren’t as busy as bustling urban hubs in more populous cities like Atlanta and Savannah. However, the Garden City’s limited transportation options and lower walkability score leave most residents dependent on a personal vehicle for everything from entertainment to everyday errands and commuting to and from work. The right car insurance policy is vital to maneuvering safely throughout Augusta’s roadways and providing the coverage you need when unexpected events arise.
How Much Does Car Insurance Cost in Augusta, Georgia?
Residents in Augusta pay an average of $46 per month for minimum liability and an average of $132 monthly for full coverage auto insurance. Rates in Augusta are substantially cheaper than state averages of $84 per month for minimum liability and $242 per month for full coverage.
While Georgia state averages are higher than the national averages of $67 monthly for minimum liability and $224 for full coverage, Augusta’s rates are comfortably below national levels.
What Does It Mean That Georgia Is an At-Fault State?
Georgia is an “at-fault” insurance state, which means drivers are responsible for paying damages in accidents they cause. Fault is typically determined with evidence that may include police reports, accident scene photos, and witness statements. More than one driver can bear some fault for an accident. When both drivers are at fault, Georgia’s comparative fault laws are used to define fault percentages and who is responsible for paying for damages.
Drivers found less than 50% at fault for an accident can recover damages in relation to their percentage of fault. For example, if you are in an accident that was 60% your fault, the other driver can file a claim with your insurer for a portion of their injuries and or property damage. The state minimum liability policy is designed to take care of these costs. However, it’s important to remember that damages can only be covered up to your policy’s limits.
Affordable Car Insurance Rates Comparison by Cities in Georgia
Car insurance rates vary considerably throughout Georgia due to risk factors in each location. Check out our breakdown below for a comparison of average monthly premiums in Georgia cities.
| City | Full Coverage Insurance | Liability Insurance Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| Augusta | $132 | $46 |
| Savannah | $146 | $48 |
| Evans | $135 | $46 |
| Atlanta | $170 | $62 |
| Columbus | $142 | $48 |
Affordable Augusta Car Insurance Rates by Zip Code
As a large city, Augusta has many zip codes that represent different risk factors (such as drivers’ ages, vandalism rates, claim rates, theft, etc.). See our chart below to compare rates across Augusta’s zip codes.
| Zip Code | Full Coverage Insurance | Liability Insurance Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| 30906 | $132 | $46 |
| 30907 | $129 | $44 |
| 30909 | $131 | $46 |
| 30904 | $130 | $46 |
| 30901 | $134 | $47 |
| 30905 | $133 | $48 |
Low-Cost Car Insurance Rates by Age in Augusta
Age is one of the biggest factors influencing car insurance rates. Auto insurance for teens often comes with substantially higher rates because low driving inexperience represents a high accident risk.
Check out the chart below to compare the average cost of insurance by age in Augusta.
| Age | Full Coverage Insurance | Liability Insurance Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| Teenagers | $475 | $190 |
| 20s | $198 | $84 |
| 30s | $128 | $45 |
| 40s | $119 | $43 |
| 50s | $112 | $40 |
| 60s | $114 | $42 |
| 70s | $136 | $53 |
*We use the following methodology to arrive at our average cost: male, age 30, state minimum liability, and full coverage of 100/30//100
Driving Conditions in Augusta
Driving in Augusta is generally considered safe. However, motorists must watch for various factors that are likely to cause accidents. For instance, congested roadways during golf tournament season in April or flooded roads during heavy rain increase accident risks. While the weather rarely gets cold enough to make roads icy, hilly areas are a significant hazard when temps dip below freezing on cold, wet days. Even in fair weather on the slowest days, Augusta’s intersections can be busy, leading to frequent accidents.
How Many Accidents Happen in Augusta?
Over 8,700 traffic accidents occurred in Augusta in 2022, injuring 2,861 people and causing 39 fatalities. Many of these accidents occurred on the state’s busiest roads and intersections, serving as a reminder for drivers to avoid distractions and practice safe driving habits. Fewer accidents reduce insurance claim rates, leading to more affordable rates for everyone.
How Are the Road Infrastructure and Bridges in Augusta?
Augusta sits on I-20 between Atlanta and Columbia, with every major artery of the Southeastern Interstates within easy reach. The city’s vital location requires roads to stay well-maintained for smooth travel. Still, drivers should be aware of local construction zones and unexpected traffic congestion.
During the Masters Tournament, traffic doubles in the Washington Road area as golfers come to participate or watch the events, and temporary light signals are put in place to improve traffic flow, requiring drivers to be on alert for unexpected changes and visitors unfamiliar with the area.
Augusta has several bridges that cross the Augusta Canal and the Savannah River, connecting various roads and interstates and acting as a reminder of the city’s storied history. Construction is one of the biggest factors motorists should watch for on Augusta’s bridges. After nearly six years of construction, the old bridges on I-20, over the Augusta Canal and the Savannah River, have been replaced. However, residents will have to be on the lookout for more road changes related to bridge construction in the future, including the 13th Street bridge, which currently doesn’t have a planned start date.
Minimum Car Insurance Requirements in Augusta
All Augusta drivers are required to carry an active car insurance policy that meets Georgia’s state minimum requirements. State minimum car insurance requirements are:
- Bodily Injury Liability: $25,000 per person and $50,000 per incident
- Property Damage Liability: $25,000 per incident
- While it is not required, Uninsured Motorist Coverage is strongly recommended: Optional coverage that provides coverage when you’re involved in an accident caused by an uninsured or underinsured motorist.
These minimums pay for damage to bodily injury or property damage sustained by others in an accident you caused. You can purchase additional coverage to increase your limits and better cover your and your passengers’ bodily injury and damage to your vehicle.
What Are the Penalties for Driving Without Insurance in Augusta, GA?
Driving without insurance is illegal in Georgia. Failure to show proof of insurance can result in fines, penalties, and possibly the suspension of your vehicle registration. The penalties for driving without insurance in Augusta depend on whether it’s your first offense.
Potential penalties are as follows:
- First Offense: A fine of $200 and 60 days minimum license suspension
- Subsequent Offenses: Fines of up to $1,000 and 90 days minimum license suspension
Additional fees required upon reinstating your registration include a lapse fee of $25 and a registration reinstatement fee of $60-$160.
Factors Allowed in Augusta Car Insurance Rates
Insurance rates can vary widely from person to person based on various personal and external factors that affect risk potential. These are some of the most common factors impacting your rates in Augusta.
- Driving History: Traffic violations and accidents in your driving history suggest you’re a higher risk to insure, leading to higher rates.
- Age: Younger drivers can face substantially higher premiums because inexperience can make them more likely to cause an accident. Rates decrease slowly until a driver reaches about 30 years of age.
- Location: More frequent accidents or higher vandalism and theft rates can lead to higher insurance premiums in different areas throughout Augusta.
- Vehicle Type: The make, model, and year of your car can affect your insurance costs due to factors like safety features and car value.
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Here’s What You Need to Know When Driving in Georgia
Whether you’re new to driving or new to driving in Georgia, you should know about some state-specific driving laws that may be unique to the state. All drivers are responsible for following both state and local driving laws.
These are a few Georgia driving laws you may not know about:
- You can’t merge from the center lane. Merging from the center lane can make it easier to turn left into oncoming traffic. However, in Georgia, the center lane is only allowed to be used when making a left turn off the road.
- Don’t wear headphones and drive. Wearing headphones while driving is generally considered dangerous. But it’s also illegal in Georgia. Drivers cannot wear a headset or headphones unless it’s for qualifying communication purposes.
- Don’t drive slowly enough to disrupt traffic. Driving slow enough to impede the flow of traffic is illegal in Georgia—unless reduced speed is necessary for safe operation. Examples include congestion, inclement weather, obstructions, and when a vehicle must be driven in the passing lane to exit or turn left.
Learning all local and national driving laws is essential to ensure you’re abiding by roadway rules and regulations.
What Are the Best Discounts for Car Insurance in Augusta, GA?
Affordability is a vital part of finding the right car insurance policy with the coverage you need. Taking advantage of various discounts provided by auto insurers can help Augusta drivers lower their monthly premiums.
Some of the best discounts offered by Augusta insurers include:
Get an Online Quote for Car Insurance in Augusta Today!
All Augusta drivers are required to have an active car insurance policy that meets the state’s minimum liability requirements. Many motorists also choose to purchase additional policies, including collision, comprehensive, and uninsured motorist coverage, for added protection.
Whether you’re seeking a policy to meet minimum liability requirements or full coverage, the insurance specialists at Southern Harvest can help. Get started with an online quote, call us at 877-831-4677, or visit a nearby office to meet with our friendly agents.
